BACKGROUND In the absence of effective antimicrobials,transplant surgery is not viable,and antirejection immunosuppressants cannot be administered,as resistant infections compromise the life-saving goal of organ trans...BACKGROUND In the absence of effective antimicrobials,transplant surgery is not viable,and antirejection immunosuppressants cannot be administered,as resistant infections compromise the life-saving goal of organ transplantation.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobials in preventing resistance in solid organ transplant recipients.METHODS A systematic review was conducted using a search methodology consistent with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses.This review included randomized clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of antimicrobial agents(prophylactic or therapeutic)aimed at preventing antimicrobial resistance.The search strategy involved analyzing multiple databases,including PubMed/MEDLINE,Web of Science,Embase,Scopus,and SciELO,as well as examining gray literature sources on Google Scholar.A comprehensive electronic database search was conducted from the databases’inception until May 2024,with no language restrictions.RESULTS After the final phase of the eligibility assessment,this systematic review ultimate-ly included 7 articles.A total of 2318 patients were studied.The most studied microorganisms were cytomegalovirus,although vancomycinresistant enterococci,Clostridioides difficile,and multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales were also analyzed.The antimicrobials used in the interventions were mainly maribavir,valganciclovir,gancic-lovir,and colistin-neomycin.Of concern,all clinical trials showed significant proportions of resistant microorga-nisms after the interventions,with no statistically significant differences between the groups(mean resistance 13.47%vs 14.39%),except for two studies that demonstrated greater efficacy of maribavir and valganciclovir(mean resistance 22.2%vs 41.1%in the control group;P<0.05).The total reported deaths in three clinical trials were 75,and there were 24 graft rejections in two studies.CONCLUSION All clinical trials reported significant proportions of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms following interventions.More high-quality randomized clinical trials are needed to corroborate these results.展开更多
Transplantation of the left lateral section(LLS)of the liver is now an established practice for treating advanced diffuse and unresectable focal liver diseases in children,with variants of the LLS primarily used in in...Transplantation of the left lateral section(LLS)of the liver is now an established practice for treating advanced diffuse and unresectable focal liver diseases in children,with variants of the LLS primarily used in infants.However,the surgical challenge of matching the size of an adult donor's graft to the volume of a child's abdomen remains significant.This review explores historical developments,various approaches to measuring the required functional liver mass,and techniques to prevent complications associated with large-for-size grafts in infants.展开更多
BACKGROUND Old donor allografts in liver transplantation(LT)account for 25%of all allografts,and their utilization is projected to increase with the aging general population.Older allografts are associated with higher...BACKGROUND Old donor allografts in liver transplantation(LT)account for 25%of all allografts,and their utilization is projected to increase with the aging general population.Older allografts are associated with higher rates of all-cause mortality and graft failure;however,there is limited literature exploring the specific phenotypic changes(e.g.,functional status,cause-specific mortality)observed in different donor:recipient age pairs.AIM To investigate differences in functional impairment and cause-specific mortality between different donor:recipient age pairs.METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of LT patients from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients from 2002 to 2022.Donors were categorized into younger age donors,≤45-years(YAD),middle-aged donors,46-69-years(MAD),and older age donors,≥70-years(OAD).Recipients were categorized into younger age recipients,≤55-years(YAR)and older age recipients,>55-years(OAR)age recipients.Multivariate Fine-Gray competing risk and logistic regression analyses identified independent risk factors for cause-specific mortality and improvements in functional status,respectively.RESULTS Overall,126185 patients were included in the analysis:YAD:YAR(32.7%), YAD:OAR (25.2%), MAD:YAR (17.5%), MAD:OAR (20.7%), OAD:YAR (1.3%), and OAD:OAR (2.7%). Compared toYAD:YAR, OAD pairs had the lowest likelihoods of improved functional status 5 years post-LT (OAD:YAR oddsratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.42-0.67, P < 0.001;OAD:OAR odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.51-0.89, P = 0.006). Donor:recipient age pairs with older donors had higher rates of graft- and infection-relatedmortality compared to those with younger donors (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, donor:recipient age pairs with olderrecipients had higher cardioneurovascular- or malignancy-related deaths compared to those with youngerrecipients (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONDonor:recipient age mismatch was associated with differences in cause-specific mortality and functional status.These insights could potentially inform age-matched organ allocation strategies, though future work is warranted.展开更多
BACKGROUND The utilization of hearts from older donors has increased,particularly for older recipients.However,the impact of older donor hearts on recipients of different ages is less known.AIM To determine the impact...BACKGROUND The utilization of hearts from older donors has increased,particularly for older recipients.However,the impact of older donor hearts on recipients of different ages is less known.AIM To determine the impact of older donor hearts on post-transplant outcomes across different recipient age groups.METHODS The Organ Procurement and Transplant Network database was queried from 2006 to March 2024.Four groups were created stratifying by donor age(>55 years)and recipient age(>60 years).Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression models were used.RESULTS One thousand fifty out of 39868 transplants(2.6%)were performed utilizing hearts from older donors.The rate of older donor hearts in younger recipients was only 1.8%,while the older donor hearts were used 4.0%in older recipients(P<0.001).Old donor/old recipient and young donor/old recipient combinations were associated with post-transplant mortality[hazard ratio(HR):1.64(95%CI:1.42-1.90)and 1.42(95%CI:1.34-1.51)],while old donor/young recipient was not.Within each recipient age group,the older recipient groups showed greater differences in 1-and 5-year survival probabilities(80.4%and 67.4%with old donors,89.2%and 76.8%with young donors)than younger recipient groups(90.3%and 77.5%with old donors,92.2%and 80.3%with young donors).CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the higher utilization of older donor hearts(aged more than 55)in older recipients.Paradoxically,the combination of older donor hearts with older recipients is associated with a higher risk of mortality.However,these organs remain valuable options across all recipient age groups in current context of organ shortage.展开更多
BACKGROUND Tacrolimus(TAC)is metabolized primarily by the CYP3A-encoded enzyme family(CYP3A4,CYP3A5,and CYP3A7).Individuals expressing the CYP3A51 allele are considered fast metabolizers and generally require higher T...BACKGROUND Tacrolimus(TAC)is metabolized primarily by the CYP3A-encoded enzyme family(CYP3A4,CYP3A5,and CYP3A7).Individuals expressing the CYP3A51 allele are considered fast metabolizers and generally require higher TAC doses to reach therapeutic levels.AIM To evaluate the predictive value of the TAC concentration-to-dose(C0/D)ratio for identifying CYP3A5 poly-morphisms in renal transplant recipients.METHODS Eighty-six de novo kidney transplant recipients with TAC-based immunosuppression from the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis at Military Hospital 103(Hanoi,Vietnam)were included in this retrospective study.Blood samples were collected within the first week post-transplantation to monitor TAC levels and to perform genotyping for CYP3A5 genetic polymorphisms.RESULTS The CYP3A53/3 genotype was identified in 37 patients(43%),CYP3A51/3 in 40 patients(46.5%),and CYP3A51/1 in 9 patients(10.5%).Patients carrying the CYP3A51/3 or CYP3A51/1 genotype,classified as fast metabolizers(CYP3A5 expressers),had significantly lower TAC C0 concentrations and C0/D ratios compared to slow meta-bolizers(CYP3A53/3 genotype)at multiple time points during follow-up(all P<0.001).Notably,the TAC C0/D ratio obtained on day 1(0.91)was shown to predict CYP3A5 polymorphism with a sensitivity of 84.6%and a specificity of 84.6%.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the TAC C0/D ratio provides a reliable predictive value for CYP3A5 polymorphisms,which can be used to individualize TAC dosing in renal transplant recipients in Vietnam and other low-income countries.展开更多
Kidney transplantation(KT),although the best treatment option for eligible patients,entails maintaining and adhering to a life-long treatment regimen of medications,lifestyle changes,self-care,and appointments.Many pa...Kidney transplantation(KT),although the best treatment option for eligible patients,entails maintaining and adhering to a life-long treatment regimen of medications,lifestyle changes,self-care,and appointments.Many patients experience uncertain outcome trajectories increasing their vulnerability and symptom burden and generating complex care needs.Even when transplants are successful,for some patients the adjustment to life post-transplant can be challenging and psychological difficulties,economic challenges and social isola-tion have been reported.About 50%of patients lose their transplant within 10 years and must return to dialysis or pursue another transplant or conservative care.This paper documents the complicated journey patients undertake before and after KT and outlines some initiatives aimed at improving patient-centered care in transplantation.A more cohesive approach to care that borrows its philosophical approach from the established field of supportive oncology may improve patient experiences and outcomes.We propose the"supportive care in transplantation"care model to operationalize a patient-centered approach in transplantation.This model can build on other ongoing initiatives of other scholars and researchers and can help advance patient-centered care through the entire care continuum of kidney transplant recipients and candidates.Multi-dimensionality,multi-disciplinarity and evidence-based approaches are proposed as other key tenets of this care model.We conclude by proposing the potential advantages of this approach to patients and healthcare systems.Core Tip:Kidney transplant recipients and candidates face several uncertainties in their care journey and have several expressed unmet healthcare needs.We recommend a structured and comprehensive approach to transplant care across the entire continuum of a transplant patient’s journey similar to what has been developed in the field of oncology.The supportive care in transplantation model can operationalize patient-centered care and build on the efforts of other researchers in the field.We postulate that such a model would significantly improve care delivery and patients’experiences and outcomes and potentially decrease healthcare utilization and cost.INTRODUCTION Patients with kidney failure benefit from(KT)[1,2],and experience improved survival rates when compared with dialysis[3-6].KT studies,using validated instruments,have also consistently demonstrated that kidney transplant recipients(KTRs)experience better health-related quality of life and several improvements in other disease-specific domains when compared with dialysis[7].In countries where dialysis is out of reach for many,the diagnosis of kidney failure would be futile without KT[8].Thus,increasing KT has been a priority for the nephrology and transplant communities.This priority has been reflected in recent global trends:Of the 79 countries where data were available,the International Society of Nephrology’s Global Kidney Atlas reported that the prevalence of KTRs in 2023 was 279 per million population which represented an increase of 9.4%from the data published four years prior[8].Despite this growth,KT can be a challenging journey for many patients and it is sometimes regarded as a‘cure’,which does not conform with the reality that many patients experience[9-13].KTRs must maintain a life-long treatment regimen of medications,lifestyle changes,self-care and medical appointments[14-17].As poignantly stated by a young female transplant recipient,“I thought everything would change once I got my kidney.I thought I would be healthy again”but after experiencing multiple side effects of immunosuppressive medications and graft loss,she stated,“I am just a different kind of patient now”[18].Indeed,a significant proportion of patients experience graft failure and return to dialysis;it is estimated that over 50%return to dialysis within 10 years of KT[19-23].Patients are often not prepared for this outcome and report several psychosocial and physical ramifications of graft failure[24,25].Overall,high symptom burden,adverse effects of immunosuppressants,risk of graft rejection or failure and mortality,contribute to complex needs,vulnerability and uncertainties for patients,increasing their care needs and treatment burden[26-30].In this paper,we highlight the complex journey that KTRs and candidates undertake that can generate varied outcome trajectories and complex healthcare needs.We highlight the need for a comprehensive patient-centered approach to care and conclude with a proposal for a“supportive care in transplantation”care model.展开更多
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic has posed a major public health concern worldwide.Patients with comorbid conditions are at risk of adverse outcomes following COVID-19.Solid organ transplant r...BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic has posed a major public health concern worldwide.Patients with comorbid conditions are at risk of adverse outcomes following COVID-19.Solid organ transplant recipients with concurrent immunosuppression and comorbidities are more susceptible to a severe COVID-19 infection.It could lead to higher rates of inpatient complications and mortality in this patient population.However,studies on COVID-19 outcomes in liver transplant(LT)recipients have yielded inconsistent findings.AIM To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital-related outcomes among LT recipients in the United States.METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the 2019–2020 National Inpatient Sample database.Patients with primary LT hospitalizations and a secondary COVID-19 diagnosis were identified using the International Classi-fication of Diseases,Tenth Revision coding system.The primary outcomes included trends in LT hospitalizations before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.Secondary outcomes included comparative trends in inpatient mortality and transplant rejection in LT recipients.RESULTS A total of 15720 hospitalized LT recipients were included.Approximately 0.8% of patients had a secondary diagnosis of COVID-19 infection.In both cohorts,the median admission age was 57 years.The linear trends for LT hospitalizations did not differ significantly before and during the pandemic(P=0.84).The frequency of in-hospital mortality for LT recipients increased from 1.7% to 4.4% between January 2019 and December 2020.Compared to the pre-pandemic period,a higher association was noted between LT recipients and in-hospital mortality during the pandemic,with an odds ratio(OR)of 1.69[95% confidence interval(CI):1.55-1.84),P<0.001].The frequency of transplant rejections among hospitalized LT recipients increased from 0.2%to 3.6% between January 2019 and December 2020.LT hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic had a higher association with transplant rejection than before the pandemic[OR:1.53(95%CI:1.26-1.85),P<0.001].CONCLUSION The hospitalization rates for LT recipients were comparable before and during the pandemic.Inpatient mortality and transplant rejection rates for hospitalized LT recipients were increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.展开更多
Growth retardation is a significant complication observed in pediatric renal transplant recipients,originating from a multifactorial etiology.Factors contributing to growth impairment encompass pre-transplant conditio...Growth retardation is a significant complication observed in pediatric renal transplant recipients,originating from a multifactorial etiology.Factors contributing to growth impairment encompass pre-transplant conditions such as primary kidney disease,malnutrition,quality of care,growth deficits at the time of transplantation,dialysis adequacy,and the use of recombinant human growth hormone.Additionally,elements related to the renal transplant itself,such as living donors,corticosteroid usage,and graft functioning,further compound the challenge.Although renal transplantation is the preferred renal replacement therapy,its impact on achieving final height and normal growth in children remains uncertain.The consequences of growth delay extend beyond the physi-ological realm,negatively influencing the quality of life and social conditions of pediatric renal transplant recipients,and ultimately affecting their educational and employment outcomes.Despite advancements in graft survival rates,growth retardation remains a formidable clinical concern among children undergoing renal transplantation.Major risk factors for delayed final adult height include young age at transplantation,pre-existing short stature,and the use of specific immunosuppressive drugs,particularly steroids.Effective management of growth retardation necessitates early intervention,commencing even before transplantation.Strategies involving the administration of recombinant growth hormone both pre-and post-transplant,along with protocols aimed at minimizing steroid usage,are important for achieving catch-up growth.This review provides a comprehensive outline of the multifaceted nature of growth retardation in pediatric renal transplant recipients,emphasizing the importance of early and targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on the long-term well-being of these children from birth to adolescence.INTRODUCTION Children with chronic kidney disease(CKD)endure frequent hospitalizations and ongoing treatment,which significantly affect their quality of life.One of the most noticeable effects of CKD in children is poor growth,with stunted height being a common sign of chronic malnutrition.Growth assessment involves regularly measuring weight and height/length and comparing these against z-score charts,along with other anthropometric indicators like head circumference and mid-upper arm circumference.Data from the North American Pediatric Renal Trials and Collaborative Studies(NAPRTCS)registry shows that over 35%of children enrolled had stunted growth at the time of admission,with growth impairment being more severe in younger children(58%in those aged under 1 year,compared to 22%in those aged over 12 years).Additionally,the same data revealed that growth impairment worsens as the severity of the disease increases.Although recent advances in science have enabled better outcomes for children with CKD,in resource-limited settings,numerous children are still deprived of achieving optimal growth owing to the disease and its related factors.Stunting is a key indicator of chronic growth impairment in children.A study by Wong et al[1]in the United States Renal Data System found that each SD decrease in height among children with stage V CKD is linked to a 14%increase in the risk of death[1].Similarly,research by Furth et al[2]using data from the NAPRTCS indicated that children with a height standard deviation score(SDS)of-2.5 face a relative hazard of death of 2.07.Stunting also correlates with increased hospitalizations.A study in the United States followed 1112 pediatric patients with end-stage renal disease from 1990 to 1995.It showed that children with severe or moderate growth failure had higher hospitalization rates compared to those with normal growth.Specifically,the relative risk for hospitalization was 1.14(95%CI:1.1-1.2)for those with moderate growth failure and 1.24(95%CI:1.2-1.3)for those with severe growth failure,even after adjusting for age,sex,race,cause,and duration of end-stage renal disease,and treatment type[2](dialysis or transplant).The growth of a child significantly affects his/her psychological and overall well-being as an adult.Short children are often embarrassed by peers,and it has been observed that height influences employment status,with unemployment being more prevalent among stunted individuals.Further,marital opportunities can be fewer among stunted individuals[3].Hence,all measures to achieve adequate growth should be attempted in children with CKD,regardless of whether they undergo transplantation.展开更多
AIM To evaluate the effect of a 12-mo supervised aerobic and resistance training, on renal function and exercise capacity compared to usual care recommendations.METHODS Ninety-nine kidney transplant recipients(KTRs) w...AIM To evaluate the effect of a 12-mo supervised aerobic and resistance training, on renal function and exercise capacity compared to usual care recommendations.METHODS Ninety-nine kidney transplant recipients(KTRs) were assigned to interventional exercise(Group A; n = 52) and a usual care cohort(Group B; n = 47). Blood and urine chemistry, exercise capacity, muscular strength, anthropometric measures and health-related quality of life(HRQo L) were assessed at baseline, and after 6 and 12 mo. Group A underwent a supervised training three times per week for 12 mo. Group B received only general recommendations about home-based physical activities.RESULTS Eighty-five KTRs completed the study(Group A, n = 44; Group B, n = 41). After 12 mo, renal function remained stable in both groups. Group A significantly increased maximum workload(+13 W, P = 0.0003), V'O2 peak(+3.1 mL/kg per minute, P = 0.0099), muscular strength in plantar flexor(+12 kg, P = 0.0368), height in the countermovement jump(+1.9 cm, P = 0.0293) and decreased in Body Mass Index(-0.5 kg/m^2, P = 0.0013). HRQo L significantly improved in physical function(P = 0.0019), physical-role limitations(P = 0.0321) and social functioning scales(P = 0.0346). Noimprovements were found in Group B.CONCLUSION Twelve-month of supervised aerobic and resistance training improves the physiological variables related to physical fitness and cardiovascular risks without consequences on renal function. Recommendations alone are not sufficient to induce changes in exercise capacity of KTRs. Our study is an example of collaborative working between transplant centres, sports medicine and exercise facilities.展开更多
Polyomavirus BK(BKV) infects up to 90% of the general population. After primary infection, occurring early during childhood, a state of non-replicative infection is established in the reno-urinary tract, without compl...Polyomavirus BK(BKV) infects up to 90% of the general population. After primary infection, occurring early during childhood, a state of non-replicative infection is established in the reno-urinary tract, without complications for immunocompetent hosts. In immunocompromised individuals, particularly transplanted patients, asymptomatic BKV viremia and/or viruria can be observed. Renal grafts may also be sources of infection as BKV prefers kidneys rather than other solid organs for transplantation such as the liver. The mechanism behind the higher incidence of BKV infection in kidney transplant patients, compared to liver or heart transplantation, is unclear and the prevalence of BKV infection in non-renal solid organ transplants has not been yet thoroughly investigated. We evaluated the prevalence of Polyomavirus BK infection among liver transplant recipients. A Pub Med search was conducted using the terms BKV infection AND liver transplant recipients; BKV AND non-renal solid organ transplant*; BKV infection AND immunosuppression; the search was limited to title/abstract and English-language articles published from 2000, to March 2015. Eleven relevant studies suggest that the prevalence of BKV viruria and/or viremia among liver transplant recipients is less than that reported in kidney or heart transplant recipients, except when chronic kidney disease(CKD) is present at the same time. Data also suggest that viruric and viremic patients have higher levels of serum creatinine than BKV negative patients. Moreover, no specific immunosuppressive drugs are associated with the onset of BKV nephropathy. The comorbidity of transplantation and CKD could play a major role in promoting BKV replication.展开更多
Mycoviruses have been found to infect more than 12 species of Penicillium, but have not been isolated from Penicillium italicum(P. italicum). In this study, we isolated and characterized a new double-stranded RNA(ds R...Mycoviruses have been found to infect more than 12 species of Penicillium, but have not been isolated from Penicillium italicum(P. italicum). In this study, we isolated and characterized a new double-stranded RNA(ds RNA) virus, designated Penicillium italicum chrysovirus 1(Pi CV1), from the citrus pathogen P. italicum HSPi-YN1. Viral genome sequencing and molecular characterization indicated that Pi CV1 was highly homologous to the previously described Penicillium chrysogenum virus. We further constructed the mutant HSPi-YN1 Dpks P defective in the polyketide synthase gene(pks P), which is involved in pigment biosynthesis, and these mutants formed albino(white) colonies. Then we applied hyphal anastomosis method to horizontally transmit Pi CV1 from the white virus-donors(i.e., HSPi-YN1 mutants) to wild-type recipients(i.e., P.italicum strains HSPi-CQ54, HSPi-HB4, and HSPi-HN1), and the desirable Pi CV1-infected isogenic recipients, a certain part of blue wild-type strains, can be eventually selected and confirmed by viral genomic ds RNA profile analysis. This bluewhite colony screening would be an easier method to select virus-infected P. italicum recipients, according to distinguishable color phenotypes between blue virus-recipients and white virus-donors. In summary, the current work newly isolated and characterized Pi CV1, verified its horizontal transmission among dually cultured P. italicum isolates, and based on these, established an effective and simplified approach to screen Pi CV1-infected isogenic recipients.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate whether there is a threshold sensitization level beyond which benefits of chronic steroid maintenance(CSM) emerge. METHODS: Using Organ Procurement and Transplant Network/United Network of Organ Shari...AIM: To evaluate whether there is a threshold sensitization level beyond which benefits of chronic steroid maintenance(CSM) emerge. METHODS: Using Organ Procurement and Transplant Network/United Network of Organ Sharing database, we compared the adjusted graft and patient survivals for CSM vs early steroid withdrawal(ESW) among patients who underwent deceased-donor kidney(DDK) transplantation from 2000 to 2008 who were stratified by peak-panel reactive antibody(peak-PRA) titers(0%-30%, 31%-60% and > 60%). All patients received perioperative induction therapy and maintenance immunosuppression based on calcineurin inhibitor(CNI) and mycophenolate mofetil(MMF).RESULTS: The study included 42851 patients. In the 0%-30% peak-PRA class, adjusted over-all graft-failure(HR 1.11, 95%CI: 1.03-1.20, P = 0.009) and patientdeath(HR 1.29, 95%CI: 1.16-1.43, P < 0.001) risks were higher and death-censored graft-failure risk(HR 1.06, 95%CI: 0.98-1.14, P = 0.16) similar for CSM(n = 25218) vs ESW(n = 7399). Over-all(HR 1.04, 95%CI: 0.85-1.28, P = 0.70) and death-censored(HR 0.97, 95%CI: 0.78-1.21, P = 0.81) graft-failure risks were similar and patient-death risk(HR 1.39, 95%CI: 1.03-1.87, P = 0.03) higher for CSM(n = 3495) vs ESW(n = 850) groups for 31%-60% peak-PRA class. In the > 60% peak-PRA class, adjusted overall graft-failure(HR 0.90, 95%CI: 0.76-1.08, P = 0.25) and patientdeath(HR 0.92, 95%CI: 0.71-1.17, P = 0.47) risks were similar and death-censored graft-failure risk lower(HR 0.84, 95%CI: 0.71-0.99, P = 0.04) for CSM(n = 4966)vs ESW(n = 923).CONCLUSION: In DDK transplant recipients who underwent perioperative induction and CNI/MMF maintenance, CSM appears to be associated with increased risk for death with functioning graft in minimally-sensitized patients and improved death-censored graft survival in highly-sensitized patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Liver transplant patients are at higher risk of infection due to immunosuppression.Whether liver transplant recipients are also more susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2...BACKGROUND Liver transplant patients are at higher risk of infection due to immunosuppression.Whether liver transplant recipients are also more susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)and will have worse outcomes than the general population if they develop coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)due to SARS-CoV-2 is a topic of ongoing studies,including ours.AIM To assess the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in liver transplant recipients.METHODS This was a case-control study,with a database search performed(at the study site)from March 1,2020 through February 28,2021.Patients 18 years or older who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via polymerase chain reaction(PCR)were included in the study.Patients with infection other than pneumonia at the time of admission were excluded.After selection,patients who had been the recipient of liver transplant were considered cases and those without as controls.After being matched by age,sex,and obesity,two controls were randomly selected for each case.Death and hospitalization due to COVID-19 infection were the primary outcomes.Secondary outcomes were pertinent only to patients who were hospitalized,and they included duration of hospital stay,need for supplemental oxygen,presence of at least one type of end-organ damage,effects on liver enzymes,incidence of acute liver failure,effect on d-dimer levels,and incidence of venous thromboembolism(VTE).Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare all primary and secondary outcomes with the exception of duration of hospital stay and d-dimer levels,which were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Alpha criterion was set at 0.05.Logistic regression was performed for each primary outcome(as the dependent variable).Statistical analyses were performed using R software.RESULTS Of the 470 Liver transplant recipients who were tested for COVID-19 via the PCR test,39 patients tested positive(8.3%).There was no significant difference between cases and controls regarding death[odds ratio(OR):2.04,95%confidence interval(CI):0.14–29.17;P=0.60]and hospitalization rates(OR:1.38,95%CI:0.59–3.24;P=0.46).There also was no significant difference between cases and controls with respect to all secondary outcomes.Among all patients who had elevated liver enzymes,their levels were either normalized,improving,or remained stable at the time of discharge.No patient developed acute liver failure.Of the 31 hospitalized patients,27 received a prophylactic anticoagulation dose and no patient developed VTE in either group.Among cases who were hospitalized,immunosuppression was decreased in 5 patients and there was no change in immunosuppression among the remaining 7 patients.One patient died in each of these two subgroups.Logistic regression analysis was done,but all of the models had poor model predictions as well as insignificant predictors(independent variables).Therefore,they could not be used for either prediction or inference.CONCLUSION Clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in liver transplant recipients are not different than those without transplantation.COVID-19 should not impact timely health care access and immunosuppression continuation among these patients.展开更多
AIM To evaluate the outcomes of transplanting marginal kidneys preemptively compared to better-quality kidneys after varying dialysis vintage in older recipients.METHODS Using OPTN/United Network for Organ Sharing dat...AIM To evaluate the outcomes of transplanting marginal kidneys preemptively compared to better-quality kidneys after varying dialysis vintage in older recipients.METHODS Using OPTN/United Network for Organ Sharing database from 2001-2015, we identified deceased donor kidney(DDK) transplant recipients > 60 years of age who either underwent preemptive transplantation of kidneys with kidney donor profile index(KDPI) ≥ 85%(marginal kidneys) or received kidneys with KDPI of 35%-84%(better quality kidneys that older wait-listed patients would likely receive if waited longer) after being on dialysis for either 1-4 or 4-8 years. Using a multivariate Cox model adjusting for donor, recipient and transplant related factors-overall and death-censored graft failure risks along with patient death risk of preemptive transplant recipients were compared to transplant recipients in the 1-4 and 4-8 year dialysis vintage groups.RESUTLS The median follow up for the whole group was 37 mo(interquartile range of 57 mo). A total of 6110 DDK transplant recipients above the age of 60 years identified during the study period were found to be eligible to be included in the analysis. Among these patients350 received preemptive transplantation of kidneys with KDPI ≥ 85. The remaining patients underwent transplantation of better quality kidneys with KDPI 35-84% after being on maintenance dialysis for either 1-4 years(n = 3300) or 4-8 years(n = 2460). Adjusted overall graft failure risk and death-censored graft failure risk in preemptive high KDPI kidney recipients were similar when compared to group that received lower KDPI kidney after being on maintenance dialysis for either 1-4 years(HR 1.01, 95%CI: 0.90-1.14, P = 0.84 and HR 0.96, 95%CI: 0.79-1.16, P = 0.66 respectively) or 4-8 years(HR 0.82, 95%CI: 0.63-1.07, P = 0.15 and HR 0.81, 95%CI: 0.52-1.25, P = 0.33 respectively). Adjusted patient death risk in preemptive high KDPI kidney recipients were similar when compared to groups that received lower KDPI kidney after being on maintenance dialysis for 1-4 years(HR 0.99, 95%CI: 0.87-1.12, P = 0.89) but lower compared to patients who were on dialysis for 4-8 years(HR 0.74, 95%CI: 0.56-0.98, P = 0.037).CONCLUSION In summary, our study supports accepting a "marginal" quality high KDPI kidney preemptively in older waitlisted patients thus avoiding dialysis exposure.展开更多
BACKGROUND Physical activity levels are significantly lower in kidney transplant(KT)recipients compared to the general population.The effects of exercise training in KT recipients with diabetes mellitus remain unclear...BACKGROUND Physical activity levels are significantly lower in kidney transplant(KT)recipients compared to the general population.The effects of exercise training in KT recipients with diabetes mellitus remain unclear,and so little is known about the role of increased exercise on cardiovascular risk and metabolic profile of KT patients.AIM To investigate the effects of a 6-mo home-based exercise training program on functional capacity,glucose levels and lipid profile of diabetic KT patients.METHODS In total,21 type II diabetic KT recipients were randomly assigned into two groups:Exercise(n=11,aged 52.9±10.1 years)and control(n=10,aged 53.01±9.5 years).All participants at baseline and the end of the study underwent biochemical tests for fasting plasma glucose levels,glycated hemoglobin and lipid profile and cardiopulmonary exercise testing for maximum oxygen uptake[(VO2)peak]estimation.The exercise group followed a 6-mo supervised home-based aerobic and progressive resistance exercise program of moderate intensity 3 times per week,while the control group continued to receive usual care.RESULTS At the end of the 6-mo study,the exercise group had significantly lower values in fasting plasma glucose by 13.4%(from 120.6±28.9 mg/dL to 104.8±21.9 mg/dL,P=0.01),glycated hemoglobin by 1.5%(from 6.7%±0.4 to 6.6%±0.4,P=0.01)and triglycerides by 8.5%(from 164.7±14.8 mg/dL to 150.8±11.6 mg/dL,P<0.05)and higher values in high-density lipoprotein by 10.2%(from 51.4±8.8 mg/dL to 57.2±8.7 mg/dL,P<0.05)and(VO_(2))_(peak)by 4.7%(from 22.7±3.3 to 23.8±4.2,P=0.02)than the control group.There were statistically significant differences between the two groups at the end of the study for fasting plasma glucose(decreased by 9.6%,P<0.05),triglycerides(decreased by 4.5%,P=0.04)and(VO_(2))_(peak)(increased by 4.4%,P=0.01).Finally,after training,there was a moderate,positive linear relationship between(VO_(2))_(peak)and glycated hemoglobin in the exercise group(r=0.408,P=0.03).CONCLUSION The results demonstrated that a 6-mo home-based mixed type exercise training program can improve the functional capacity,levels of glucose and lipid profile of diabetic KT recipients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)infection is a global pandemic that is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality among recipients of solid organ transplantation.In th...BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)infection is a global pandemic that is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality among recipients of solid organ transplantation.In the course of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection,various laboratory markers have been identified as predictors for high risk of mortality.AIM To risk stratify renal transplant recipients(RTxR)using general demographic parameters,comorbidities and routine laboratory markers for the severity of the disease and its outcomes.We believe that learning about these routinely monitored parameters can help us plan better strategies for the RTxR follow-up program.METHODS This present study includes RTxR who acquired SARS-CoV-2 infection from March 2020 to February 2021.We recorded the basic demographics,comorbidities and routine laboratory markers.We investigated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on RTxRs and risk-stratified the progression of disease severity and outcomes in terms of recovery or mortality.RESULTS From 505 RTxRs in our renal transplant follow-up program,29(7.75%)RTxRs had PCR-positive SARS-CoV-2 infection.We recorded 8 deaths from SARS-CoV-2 infection giving an overall mortality rate of 1.6%but a significant 27.6%mortality in SARS-CoV-2 positive recipients.Age more than 68 years,non-Caucasian ethnicity and male gender were associated with a significant drop in survival probability;P≤0.001.<0.001 and<0.0001 respectively.87.5%of the deceased were diabetic;P≤0.0.0001.Estimated glomerular filtration rate of less than 26 mL/min/1.73 m2,serum albumin less than 20 g/L,Hemoglobin less than 9.6 g/L and serum calcium less than 1.70 mmol/L were all associated with significantly increased risk of mortality;P=0.0128,<0.001,<0.0001 and 0.0061 respectively.CONCLUSION This study has identified some routinely used modifiable parameters in predicting a higher risk of mortality and morbidity.This knowledge can be used in RTxR follow-up programs by addressing these parameters early to help reduce the morbidity and mortality in RTxRs.展开更多
Objective： This study aimed to explore adherence to and beliefs about immunosuppressive medication using the Necessity-Concerns Framework（NCF） in liver transplant recipients.Methods： A cross-sectional study perfor...Objective： This study aimed to explore adherence to and beliefs about immunosuppressive medication using the Necessity-Concerns Framework（NCF） in liver transplant recipients.Methods： A cross-sectional study performed in recipients who were at least 3 months post liver transplantation. A convenience sample of 243 recipients was recruited. Self-reported medication adherence was measured by the Basel Assessment of Adherence with Immunosuppressive Medication Scale（BAASIS）. The NCF was operationalized using the Beliefs about Medication Questionnaire（BMQ） to assess the beliefs about necessity and concerns with taking immunosuppressive medication.Results： One-hundred-forty-five liver transplant recipients were non-adherent（59.67%）. Compared to adherers, non-adherers had lower beliefs regarding the necessity of taking immunosuppressive medication and lower scores on the necessity-concerns different from adherers.Conclusions： Non-adherence is common in liver transplant recipients. Non-adherers hold beliefs that are different from adherers. Efforts to increase adherence should be made by targeting medication beliefs.展开更多
AIM: To compare the risk of cutaneous infections and tumours in kidney transplant recipients with data recently published about this topic.METHODS: In the present work, we evaluated the incidence of bacterial, fungal ...AIM: To compare the risk of cutaneous infections and tumours in kidney transplant recipients with data recently published about this topic.METHODS: In the present work, we evaluated the incidence of bacterial, fungal and viral cutaneous infectious diseases and the development of skin cancers in a cohort of 436 patients who underwent a renal transplantation. The median age at transplantation of our patients was 50 years and the median duration of the immunosuppression was of 7.2 years. Data obtainedfrom our cohort were compared with those obtained by a systematic review of the literature of the last 20 years about the same topic.RESULTS: Infectious diseases were the most frequent dermatological disorders that were diagnosed after transplantation, affecting about the 16.5% of patients. Herpes virus reactivation occurs in about the 35% of patients and is more common within 6 mo from transplantation, whereas when the immunosuppression is reduced, skin infections are mainly represented by Human Papilloma Virus infections and localized mycosis, such as pityriasis versicolor and superficial candidiasis. Bacterial infections were relatively rare and occur mainly in the first months after transplantation. The cumulative risk to develop skin cancer enhance significantly over the time, as consequence of longterm immunosuppressive regiments. Endogenous and exogenous risk factors, as well as the schedule of immunosuppression can play a role and justify the different incidence of skin cancer in the various series. CONCLUSION: Skin infections and cancer, commonly diagnosed in transplanted patients, impact on survival and life-quality, justifying the realization of follow-up programs for the early diagnosis and treatment.展开更多
The appearing of microbial lineages carrying multiple dangerous loci are results from the extensive use of antibiotics and has brought a huge increase in the infections-derived morbidity and mortality, which is critic...The appearing of microbial lineages carrying multiple dangerous loci are results from the extensive use of antibiotics and has brought a huge increase in the infections-derived morbidity and mortality, which is critical in the hospital setting. Etiologic agents of these non easily tractable infections include bacteria, such as the genus Staphylococcus, but also fungi and virus. Alterations in the immune system allow these organisms to invade and affect the functionality of any tissue, organ or system of the human being. Pulmonary infection occurs as result of deficient lung systemic defence mechanisms which could be altered by medical treatments or by environmental factors. The infective agents commonly gain access to the lung by air, but also by blood or lymphatic system. Staphylococcus aureus strains that share antibiotic resistance and virulence factors represent the aetiological agent responsible of many cases of bacterial pneumonia, thoracic surgery postoperative infections, and diverse tissue infections, resulting in significant disease and morbidity in recipient patients after lung transplantation. The control and treatment of Staphylococcus infections, especially methicillin resistant strains, need for developing reliable and rapid methods of detection and characterization of these microorganisms. Nowadays, new insights into the diagnostic and epidemiology of MRSA and other pathogenic staphylococci have been developed employing molecular methods. This has meant an important advance in the diagnostic and treatment plans of such infective bacteria.展开更多
文摘BACKGROUND In the absence of effective antimicrobials,transplant surgery is not viable,and antirejection immunosuppressants cannot be administered,as resistant infections compromise the life-saving goal of organ transplantation.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobials in preventing resistance in solid organ transplant recipients.METHODS A systematic review was conducted using a search methodology consistent with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses.This review included randomized clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of antimicrobial agents(prophylactic or therapeutic)aimed at preventing antimicrobial resistance.The search strategy involved analyzing multiple databases,including PubMed/MEDLINE,Web of Science,Embase,Scopus,and SciELO,as well as examining gray literature sources on Google Scholar.A comprehensive electronic database search was conducted from the databases’inception until May 2024,with no language restrictions.RESULTS After the final phase of the eligibility assessment,this systematic review ultimate-ly included 7 articles.A total of 2318 patients were studied.The most studied microorganisms were cytomegalovirus,although vancomycinresistant enterococci,Clostridioides difficile,and multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales were also analyzed.The antimicrobials used in the interventions were mainly maribavir,valganciclovir,gancic-lovir,and colistin-neomycin.Of concern,all clinical trials showed significant proportions of resistant microorga-nisms after the interventions,with no statistically significant differences between the groups(mean resistance 13.47%vs 14.39%),except for two studies that demonstrated greater efficacy of maribavir and valganciclovir(mean resistance 22.2%vs 41.1%in the control group;P<0.05).The total reported deaths in three clinical trials were 75,and there were 24 graft rejections in two studies.CONCLUSION All clinical trials reported significant proportions of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms following interventions.More high-quality randomized clinical trials are needed to corroborate these results.
文摘Transplantation of the left lateral section(LLS)of the liver is now an established practice for treating advanced diffuse and unresectable focal liver diseases in children,with variants of the LLS primarily used in infants.However,the surgical challenge of matching the size of an adult donor's graft to the volume of a child's abdomen remains significant.This review explores historical developments,various approaches to measuring the required functional liver mass,and techniques to prevent complications associated with large-for-size grafts in infants.
文摘BACKGROUND Old donor allografts in liver transplantation(LT)account for 25%of all allografts,and their utilization is projected to increase with the aging general population.Older allografts are associated with higher rates of all-cause mortality and graft failure;however,there is limited literature exploring the specific phenotypic changes(e.g.,functional status,cause-specific mortality)observed in different donor:recipient age pairs.AIM To investigate differences in functional impairment and cause-specific mortality between different donor:recipient age pairs.METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of LT patients from the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients from 2002 to 2022.Donors were categorized into younger age donors,≤45-years(YAD),middle-aged donors,46-69-years(MAD),and older age donors,≥70-years(OAD).Recipients were categorized into younger age recipients,≤55-years(YAR)and older age recipients,>55-years(OAR)age recipients.Multivariate Fine-Gray competing risk and logistic regression analyses identified independent risk factors for cause-specific mortality and improvements in functional status,respectively.RESULTS Overall,126185 patients were included in the analysis:YAD:YAR(32.7%), YAD:OAR (25.2%), MAD:YAR (17.5%), MAD:OAR (20.7%), OAD:YAR (1.3%), and OAD:OAR (2.7%). Compared toYAD:YAR, OAD pairs had the lowest likelihoods of improved functional status 5 years post-LT (OAD:YAR oddsratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.42-0.67, P < 0.001;OAD:OAR odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval 0.51-0.89, P = 0.006). Donor:recipient age pairs with older donors had higher rates of graft- and infection-relatedmortality compared to those with younger donors (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, donor:recipient age pairs with olderrecipients had higher cardioneurovascular- or malignancy-related deaths compared to those with youngerrecipients (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONDonor:recipient age mismatch was associated with differences in cause-specific mortality and functional status.These insights could potentially inform age-matched organ allocation strategies, though future work is warranted.
基金Supported by The Jewel and Frank Benson Family Endowment.
文摘BACKGROUND The utilization of hearts from older donors has increased,particularly for older recipients.However,the impact of older donor hearts on recipients of different ages is less known.AIM To determine the impact of older donor hearts on post-transplant outcomes across different recipient age groups.METHODS The Organ Procurement and Transplant Network database was queried from 2006 to March 2024.Four groups were created stratifying by donor age(>55 years)and recipient age(>60 years).Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression models were used.RESULTS One thousand fifty out of 39868 transplants(2.6%)were performed utilizing hearts from older donors.The rate of older donor hearts in younger recipients was only 1.8%,while the older donor hearts were used 4.0%in older recipients(P<0.001).Old donor/old recipient and young donor/old recipient combinations were associated with post-transplant mortality[hazard ratio(HR):1.64(95%CI:1.42-1.90)and 1.42(95%CI:1.34-1.51)],while old donor/young recipient was not.Within each recipient age group,the older recipient groups showed greater differences in 1-and 5-year survival probabilities(80.4%and 67.4%with old donors,89.2%and 76.8%with young donors)than younger recipient groups(90.3%and 77.5%with old donors,92.2%and 80.3%with young donors).CONCLUSION This study demonstrates the higher utilization of older donor hearts(aged more than 55)in older recipients.Paradoxically,the combination of older donor hearts with older recipients is associated with a higher risk of mortality.However,these organs remain valuable options across all recipient age groups in current context of organ shortage.
基金Supported by the Vietnam National Foundation for Science and Technology Development,No.NAFOSTED 04/2020/TN.
文摘BACKGROUND Tacrolimus(TAC)is metabolized primarily by the CYP3A-encoded enzyme family(CYP3A4,CYP3A5,and CYP3A7).Individuals expressing the CYP3A51 allele are considered fast metabolizers and generally require higher TAC doses to reach therapeutic levels.AIM To evaluate the predictive value of the TAC concentration-to-dose(C0/D)ratio for identifying CYP3A5 poly-morphisms in renal transplant recipients.METHODS Eighty-six de novo kidney transplant recipients with TAC-based immunosuppression from the Department of Nephrology and Dialysis at Military Hospital 103(Hanoi,Vietnam)were included in this retrospective study.Blood samples were collected within the first week post-transplantation to monitor TAC levels and to perform genotyping for CYP3A5 genetic polymorphisms.RESULTS The CYP3A53/3 genotype was identified in 37 patients(43%),CYP3A51/3 in 40 patients(46.5%),and CYP3A51/1 in 9 patients(10.5%).Patients carrying the CYP3A51/3 or CYP3A51/1 genotype,classified as fast metabolizers(CYP3A5 expressers),had significantly lower TAC C0 concentrations and C0/D ratios compared to slow meta-bolizers(CYP3A53/3 genotype)at multiple time points during follow-up(all P<0.001).Notably,the TAC C0/D ratio obtained on day 1(0.91)was shown to predict CYP3A5 polymorphism with a sensitivity of 84.6%and a specificity of 84.6%.CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that the TAC C0/D ratio provides a reliable predictive value for CYP3A5 polymorphisms,which can be used to individualize TAC dosing in renal transplant recipients in Vietnam and other low-income countries.
文摘Kidney transplantation(KT),although the best treatment option for eligible patients,entails maintaining and adhering to a life-long treatment regimen of medications,lifestyle changes,self-care,and appointments.Many patients experience uncertain outcome trajectories increasing their vulnerability and symptom burden and generating complex care needs.Even when transplants are successful,for some patients the adjustment to life post-transplant can be challenging and psychological difficulties,economic challenges and social isola-tion have been reported.About 50%of patients lose their transplant within 10 years and must return to dialysis or pursue another transplant or conservative care.This paper documents the complicated journey patients undertake before and after KT and outlines some initiatives aimed at improving patient-centered care in transplantation.A more cohesive approach to care that borrows its philosophical approach from the established field of supportive oncology may improve patient experiences and outcomes.We propose the"supportive care in transplantation"care model to operationalize a patient-centered approach in transplantation.This model can build on other ongoing initiatives of other scholars and researchers and can help advance patient-centered care through the entire care continuum of kidney transplant recipients and candidates.Multi-dimensionality,multi-disciplinarity and evidence-based approaches are proposed as other key tenets of this care model.We conclude by proposing the potential advantages of this approach to patients and healthcare systems.Core Tip:Kidney transplant recipients and candidates face several uncertainties in their care journey and have several expressed unmet healthcare needs.We recommend a structured and comprehensive approach to transplant care across the entire continuum of a transplant patient’s journey similar to what has been developed in the field of oncology.The supportive care in transplantation model can operationalize patient-centered care and build on the efforts of other researchers in the field.We postulate that such a model would significantly improve care delivery and patients’experiences and outcomes and potentially decrease healthcare utilization and cost.INTRODUCTION Patients with kidney failure benefit from(KT)[1,2],and experience improved survival rates when compared with dialysis[3-6].KT studies,using validated instruments,have also consistently demonstrated that kidney transplant recipients(KTRs)experience better health-related quality of life and several improvements in other disease-specific domains when compared with dialysis[7].In countries where dialysis is out of reach for many,the diagnosis of kidney failure would be futile without KT[8].Thus,increasing KT has been a priority for the nephrology and transplant communities.This priority has been reflected in recent global trends:Of the 79 countries where data were available,the International Society of Nephrology’s Global Kidney Atlas reported that the prevalence of KTRs in 2023 was 279 per million population which represented an increase of 9.4%from the data published four years prior[8].Despite this growth,KT can be a challenging journey for many patients and it is sometimes regarded as a‘cure’,which does not conform with the reality that many patients experience[9-13].KTRs must maintain a life-long treatment regimen of medications,lifestyle changes,self-care and medical appointments[14-17].As poignantly stated by a young female transplant recipient,“I thought everything would change once I got my kidney.I thought I would be healthy again”but after experiencing multiple side effects of immunosuppressive medications and graft loss,she stated,“I am just a different kind of patient now”[18].Indeed,a significant proportion of patients experience graft failure and return to dialysis;it is estimated that over 50%return to dialysis within 10 years of KT[19-23].Patients are often not prepared for this outcome and report several psychosocial and physical ramifications of graft failure[24,25].Overall,high symptom burden,adverse effects of immunosuppressants,risk of graft rejection or failure and mortality,contribute to complex needs,vulnerability and uncertainties for patients,increasing their care needs and treatment burden[26-30].In this paper,we highlight the complex journey that KTRs and candidates undertake that can generate varied outcome trajectories and complex healthcare needs.We highlight the need for a comprehensive patient-centered approach to care and conclude with a proposal for a“supportive care in transplantation”care model.
文摘BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic has posed a major public health concern worldwide.Patients with comorbid conditions are at risk of adverse outcomes following COVID-19.Solid organ transplant recipients with concurrent immunosuppression and comorbidities are more susceptible to a severe COVID-19 infection.It could lead to higher rates of inpatient complications and mortality in this patient population.However,studies on COVID-19 outcomes in liver transplant(LT)recipients have yielded inconsistent findings.AIM To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospital-related outcomes among LT recipients in the United States.METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the 2019–2020 National Inpatient Sample database.Patients with primary LT hospitalizations and a secondary COVID-19 diagnosis were identified using the International Classi-fication of Diseases,Tenth Revision coding system.The primary outcomes included trends in LT hospitalizations before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.Secondary outcomes included comparative trends in inpatient mortality and transplant rejection in LT recipients.RESULTS A total of 15720 hospitalized LT recipients were included.Approximately 0.8% of patients had a secondary diagnosis of COVID-19 infection.In both cohorts,the median admission age was 57 years.The linear trends for LT hospitalizations did not differ significantly before and during the pandemic(P=0.84).The frequency of in-hospital mortality for LT recipients increased from 1.7% to 4.4% between January 2019 and December 2020.Compared to the pre-pandemic period,a higher association was noted between LT recipients and in-hospital mortality during the pandemic,with an odds ratio(OR)of 1.69[95% confidence interval(CI):1.55-1.84),P<0.001].The frequency of transplant rejections among hospitalized LT recipients increased from 0.2%to 3.6% between January 2019 and December 2020.LT hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic had a higher association with transplant rejection than before the pandemic[OR:1.53(95%CI:1.26-1.85),P<0.001].CONCLUSION The hospitalization rates for LT recipients were comparable before and during the pandemic.Inpatient mortality and transplant rejection rates for hospitalized LT recipients were increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
文摘Growth retardation is a significant complication observed in pediatric renal transplant recipients,originating from a multifactorial etiology.Factors contributing to growth impairment encompass pre-transplant conditions such as primary kidney disease,malnutrition,quality of care,growth deficits at the time of transplantation,dialysis adequacy,and the use of recombinant human growth hormone.Additionally,elements related to the renal transplant itself,such as living donors,corticosteroid usage,and graft functioning,further compound the challenge.Although renal transplantation is the preferred renal replacement therapy,its impact on achieving final height and normal growth in children remains uncertain.The consequences of growth delay extend beyond the physi-ological realm,negatively influencing the quality of life and social conditions of pediatric renal transplant recipients,and ultimately affecting their educational and employment outcomes.Despite advancements in graft survival rates,growth retardation remains a formidable clinical concern among children undergoing renal transplantation.Major risk factors for delayed final adult height include young age at transplantation,pre-existing short stature,and the use of specific immunosuppressive drugs,particularly steroids.Effective management of growth retardation necessitates early intervention,commencing even before transplantation.Strategies involving the administration of recombinant growth hormone both pre-and post-transplant,along with protocols aimed at minimizing steroid usage,are important for achieving catch-up growth.This review provides a comprehensive outline of the multifaceted nature of growth retardation in pediatric renal transplant recipients,emphasizing the importance of early and targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on the long-term well-being of these children from birth to adolescence.INTRODUCTION Children with chronic kidney disease(CKD)endure frequent hospitalizations and ongoing treatment,which significantly affect their quality of life.One of the most noticeable effects of CKD in children is poor growth,with stunted height being a common sign of chronic malnutrition.Growth assessment involves regularly measuring weight and height/length and comparing these against z-score charts,along with other anthropometric indicators like head circumference and mid-upper arm circumference.Data from the North American Pediatric Renal Trials and Collaborative Studies(NAPRTCS)registry shows that over 35%of children enrolled had stunted growth at the time of admission,with growth impairment being more severe in younger children(58%in those aged under 1 year,compared to 22%in those aged over 12 years).Additionally,the same data revealed that growth impairment worsens as the severity of the disease increases.Although recent advances in science have enabled better outcomes for children with CKD,in resource-limited settings,numerous children are still deprived of achieving optimal growth owing to the disease and its related factors.Stunting is a key indicator of chronic growth impairment in children.A study by Wong et al[1]in the United States Renal Data System found that each SD decrease in height among children with stage V CKD is linked to a 14%increase in the risk of death[1].Similarly,research by Furth et al[2]using data from the NAPRTCS indicated that children with a height standard deviation score(SDS)of-2.5 face a relative hazard of death of 2.07.Stunting also correlates with increased hospitalizations.A study in the United States followed 1112 pediatric patients with end-stage renal disease from 1990 to 1995.It showed that children with severe or moderate growth failure had higher hospitalization rates compared to those with normal growth.Specifically,the relative risk for hospitalization was 1.14(95%CI:1.1-1.2)for those with moderate growth failure and 1.24(95%CI:1.2-1.3)for those with severe growth failure,even after adjusting for age,sex,race,cause,and duration of end-stage renal disease,and treatment type[2](dialysis or transplant).The growth of a child significantly affects his/her psychological and overall well-being as an adult.Short children are often embarrassed by peers,and it has been observed that height influences employment status,with unemployment being more prevalent among stunted individuals.Further,marital opportunities can be fewer among stunted individuals[3].Hence,all measures to achieve adequate growth should be attempted in children with CKD,regardless of whether they undergo transplantation.
文摘AIM To evaluate the effect of a 12-mo supervised aerobic and resistance training, on renal function and exercise capacity compared to usual care recommendations.METHODS Ninety-nine kidney transplant recipients(KTRs) were assigned to interventional exercise(Group A; n = 52) and a usual care cohort(Group B; n = 47). Blood and urine chemistry, exercise capacity, muscular strength, anthropometric measures and health-related quality of life(HRQo L) were assessed at baseline, and after 6 and 12 mo. Group A underwent a supervised training three times per week for 12 mo. Group B received only general recommendations about home-based physical activities.RESULTS Eighty-five KTRs completed the study(Group A, n = 44; Group B, n = 41). After 12 mo, renal function remained stable in both groups. Group A significantly increased maximum workload(+13 W, P = 0.0003), V'O2 peak(+3.1 mL/kg per minute, P = 0.0099), muscular strength in plantar flexor(+12 kg, P = 0.0368), height in the countermovement jump(+1.9 cm, P = 0.0293) and decreased in Body Mass Index(-0.5 kg/m^2, P = 0.0013). HRQo L significantly improved in physical function(P = 0.0019), physical-role limitations(P = 0.0321) and social functioning scales(P = 0.0346). Noimprovements were found in Group B.CONCLUSION Twelve-month of supervised aerobic and resistance training improves the physiological variables related to physical fitness and cardiovascular risks without consequences on renal function. Recommendations alone are not sufficient to induce changes in exercise capacity of KTRs. Our study is an example of collaborative working between transplant centres, sports medicine and exercise facilities.
文摘Polyomavirus BK(BKV) infects up to 90% of the general population. After primary infection, occurring early during childhood, a state of non-replicative infection is established in the reno-urinary tract, without complications for immunocompetent hosts. In immunocompromised individuals, particularly transplanted patients, asymptomatic BKV viremia and/or viruria can be observed. Renal grafts may also be sources of infection as BKV prefers kidneys rather than other solid organs for transplantation such as the liver. The mechanism behind the higher incidence of BKV infection in kidney transplant patients, compared to liver or heart transplantation, is unclear and the prevalence of BKV infection in non-renal solid organ transplants has not been yet thoroughly investigated. We evaluated the prevalence of Polyomavirus BK infection among liver transplant recipients. A Pub Med search was conducted using the terms BKV infection AND liver transplant recipients; BKV AND non-renal solid organ transplant*; BKV infection AND immunosuppression; the search was limited to title/abstract and English-language articles published from 2000, to March 2015. Eleven relevant studies suggest that the prevalence of BKV viruria and/or viremia among liver transplant recipients is less than that reported in kidney or heart transplant recipients, except when chronic kidney disease(CKD) is present at the same time. Data also suggest that viruric and viremic patients have higher levels of serum creatinine than BKV negative patients. Moreover, no specific immunosuppressive drugs are associated with the onset of BKV nephropathy. The comorbidity of transplantation and CKD could play a major role in promoting BKV replication.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundations of China (No. 31371893)the Natural Science Fund of Hubei Province (No. 2018CFB676)the Project of Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology (Grant No. GRIB20184)
文摘Mycoviruses have been found to infect more than 12 species of Penicillium, but have not been isolated from Penicillium italicum(P. italicum). In this study, we isolated and characterized a new double-stranded RNA(ds RNA) virus, designated Penicillium italicum chrysovirus 1(Pi CV1), from the citrus pathogen P. italicum HSPi-YN1. Viral genome sequencing and molecular characterization indicated that Pi CV1 was highly homologous to the previously described Penicillium chrysogenum virus. We further constructed the mutant HSPi-YN1 Dpks P defective in the polyketide synthase gene(pks P), which is involved in pigment biosynthesis, and these mutants formed albino(white) colonies. Then we applied hyphal anastomosis method to horizontally transmit Pi CV1 from the white virus-donors(i.e., HSPi-YN1 mutants) to wild-type recipients(i.e., P.italicum strains HSPi-CQ54, HSPi-HB4, and HSPi-HN1), and the desirable Pi CV1-infected isogenic recipients, a certain part of blue wild-type strains, can be eventually selected and confirmed by viral genomic ds RNA profile analysis. This bluewhite colony screening would be an easier method to select virus-infected P. italicum recipients, according to distinguishable color phenotypes between blue virus-recipients and white virus-donors. In summary, the current work newly isolated and characterized Pi CV1, verified its horizontal transmission among dually cultured P. italicum isolates, and based on these, established an effective and simplified approach to screen Pi CV1-infected isogenic recipients.
基金supported in part by Health Resources and Services Administration contract 231-00-0115
文摘AIM: To evaluate whether there is a threshold sensitization level beyond which benefits of chronic steroid maintenance(CSM) emerge. METHODS: Using Organ Procurement and Transplant Network/United Network of Organ Sharing database, we compared the adjusted graft and patient survivals for CSM vs early steroid withdrawal(ESW) among patients who underwent deceased-donor kidney(DDK) transplantation from 2000 to 2008 who were stratified by peak-panel reactive antibody(peak-PRA) titers(0%-30%, 31%-60% and > 60%). All patients received perioperative induction therapy and maintenance immunosuppression based on calcineurin inhibitor(CNI) and mycophenolate mofetil(MMF).RESULTS: The study included 42851 patients. In the 0%-30% peak-PRA class, adjusted over-all graft-failure(HR 1.11, 95%CI: 1.03-1.20, P = 0.009) and patientdeath(HR 1.29, 95%CI: 1.16-1.43, P < 0.001) risks were higher and death-censored graft-failure risk(HR 1.06, 95%CI: 0.98-1.14, P = 0.16) similar for CSM(n = 25218) vs ESW(n = 7399). Over-all(HR 1.04, 95%CI: 0.85-1.28, P = 0.70) and death-censored(HR 0.97, 95%CI: 0.78-1.21, P = 0.81) graft-failure risks were similar and patient-death risk(HR 1.39, 95%CI: 1.03-1.87, P = 0.03) higher for CSM(n = 3495) vs ESW(n = 850) groups for 31%-60% peak-PRA class. In the > 60% peak-PRA class, adjusted overall graft-failure(HR 0.90, 95%CI: 0.76-1.08, P = 0.25) and patientdeath(HR 0.92, 95%CI: 0.71-1.17, P = 0.47) risks were similar and death-censored graft-failure risk lower(HR 0.84, 95%CI: 0.71-0.99, P = 0.04) for CSM(n = 4966)vs ESW(n = 923).CONCLUSION: In DDK transplant recipients who underwent perioperative induction and CNI/MMF maintenance, CSM appears to be associated with increased risk for death with functioning graft in minimally-sensitized patients and improved death-censored graft survival in highly-sensitized patients.
文摘BACKGROUND Liver transplant patients are at higher risk of infection due to immunosuppression.Whether liver transplant recipients are also more susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)and will have worse outcomes than the general population if they develop coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)due to SARS-CoV-2 is a topic of ongoing studies,including ours.AIM To assess the clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in liver transplant recipients.METHODS This was a case-control study,with a database search performed(at the study site)from March 1,2020 through February 28,2021.Patients 18 years or older who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via polymerase chain reaction(PCR)were included in the study.Patients with infection other than pneumonia at the time of admission were excluded.After selection,patients who had been the recipient of liver transplant were considered cases and those without as controls.After being matched by age,sex,and obesity,two controls were randomly selected for each case.Death and hospitalization due to COVID-19 infection were the primary outcomes.Secondary outcomes were pertinent only to patients who were hospitalized,and they included duration of hospital stay,need for supplemental oxygen,presence of at least one type of end-organ damage,effects on liver enzymes,incidence of acute liver failure,effect on d-dimer levels,and incidence of venous thromboembolism(VTE).Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare all primary and secondary outcomes with the exception of duration of hospital stay and d-dimer levels,which were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Alpha criterion was set at 0.05.Logistic regression was performed for each primary outcome(as the dependent variable).Statistical analyses were performed using R software.RESULTS Of the 470 Liver transplant recipients who were tested for COVID-19 via the PCR test,39 patients tested positive(8.3%).There was no significant difference between cases and controls regarding death[odds ratio(OR):2.04,95%confidence interval(CI):0.14–29.17;P=0.60]and hospitalization rates(OR:1.38,95%CI:0.59–3.24;P=0.46).There also was no significant difference between cases and controls with respect to all secondary outcomes.Among all patients who had elevated liver enzymes,their levels were either normalized,improving,or remained stable at the time of discharge.No patient developed acute liver failure.Of the 31 hospitalized patients,27 received a prophylactic anticoagulation dose and no patient developed VTE in either group.Among cases who were hospitalized,immunosuppression was decreased in 5 patients and there was no change in immunosuppression among the remaining 7 patients.One patient died in each of these two subgroups.Logistic regression analysis was done,but all of the models had poor model predictions as well as insignificant predictors(independent variables).Therefore,they could not be used for either prediction or inference.CONCLUSION Clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in liver transplant recipients are not different than those without transplantation.COVID-19 should not impact timely health care access and immunosuppression continuation among these patients.
文摘AIM To evaluate the outcomes of transplanting marginal kidneys preemptively compared to better-quality kidneys after varying dialysis vintage in older recipients.METHODS Using OPTN/United Network for Organ Sharing database from 2001-2015, we identified deceased donor kidney(DDK) transplant recipients > 60 years of age who either underwent preemptive transplantation of kidneys with kidney donor profile index(KDPI) ≥ 85%(marginal kidneys) or received kidneys with KDPI of 35%-84%(better quality kidneys that older wait-listed patients would likely receive if waited longer) after being on dialysis for either 1-4 or 4-8 years. Using a multivariate Cox model adjusting for donor, recipient and transplant related factors-overall and death-censored graft failure risks along with patient death risk of preemptive transplant recipients were compared to transplant recipients in the 1-4 and 4-8 year dialysis vintage groups.RESUTLS The median follow up for the whole group was 37 mo(interquartile range of 57 mo). A total of 6110 DDK transplant recipients above the age of 60 years identified during the study period were found to be eligible to be included in the analysis. Among these patients350 received preemptive transplantation of kidneys with KDPI ≥ 85. The remaining patients underwent transplantation of better quality kidneys with KDPI 35-84% after being on maintenance dialysis for either 1-4 years(n = 3300) or 4-8 years(n = 2460). Adjusted overall graft failure risk and death-censored graft failure risk in preemptive high KDPI kidney recipients were similar when compared to group that received lower KDPI kidney after being on maintenance dialysis for either 1-4 years(HR 1.01, 95%CI: 0.90-1.14, P = 0.84 and HR 0.96, 95%CI: 0.79-1.16, P = 0.66 respectively) or 4-8 years(HR 0.82, 95%CI: 0.63-1.07, P = 0.15 and HR 0.81, 95%CI: 0.52-1.25, P = 0.33 respectively). Adjusted patient death risk in preemptive high KDPI kidney recipients were similar when compared to groups that received lower KDPI kidney after being on maintenance dialysis for 1-4 years(HR 0.99, 95%CI: 0.87-1.12, P = 0.89) but lower compared to patients who were on dialysis for 4-8 years(HR 0.74, 95%CI: 0.56-0.98, P = 0.037).CONCLUSION In summary, our study supports accepting a "marginal" quality high KDPI kidney preemptively in older waitlisted patients thus avoiding dialysis exposure.
文摘BACKGROUND Physical activity levels are significantly lower in kidney transplant(KT)recipients compared to the general population.The effects of exercise training in KT recipients with diabetes mellitus remain unclear,and so little is known about the role of increased exercise on cardiovascular risk and metabolic profile of KT patients.AIM To investigate the effects of a 6-mo home-based exercise training program on functional capacity,glucose levels and lipid profile of diabetic KT patients.METHODS In total,21 type II diabetic KT recipients were randomly assigned into two groups:Exercise(n=11,aged 52.9±10.1 years)and control(n=10,aged 53.01±9.5 years).All participants at baseline and the end of the study underwent biochemical tests for fasting plasma glucose levels,glycated hemoglobin and lipid profile and cardiopulmonary exercise testing for maximum oxygen uptake[(VO2)peak]estimation.The exercise group followed a 6-mo supervised home-based aerobic and progressive resistance exercise program of moderate intensity 3 times per week,while the control group continued to receive usual care.RESULTS At the end of the 6-mo study,the exercise group had significantly lower values in fasting plasma glucose by 13.4%(from 120.6±28.9 mg/dL to 104.8±21.9 mg/dL,P=0.01),glycated hemoglobin by 1.5%(from 6.7%±0.4 to 6.6%±0.4,P=0.01)and triglycerides by 8.5%(from 164.7±14.8 mg/dL to 150.8±11.6 mg/dL,P<0.05)and higher values in high-density lipoprotein by 10.2%(from 51.4±8.8 mg/dL to 57.2±8.7 mg/dL,P<0.05)and(VO_(2))_(peak)by 4.7%(from 22.7±3.3 to 23.8±4.2,P=0.02)than the control group.There were statistically significant differences between the two groups at the end of the study for fasting plasma glucose(decreased by 9.6%,P<0.05),triglycerides(decreased by 4.5%,P=0.04)and(VO_(2))_(peak)(increased by 4.4%,P=0.01).Finally,after training,there was a moderate,positive linear relationship between(VO_(2))_(peak)and glycated hemoglobin in the exercise group(r=0.408,P=0.03).CONCLUSION The results demonstrated that a 6-mo home-based mixed type exercise training program can improve the functional capacity,levels of glucose and lipid profile of diabetic KT recipients.
基金Compliance with local ethical and data protection policies.Registered with St Georges University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Quality Assurance Department.Registration no AUD1000854。
文摘BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2(SARS-CoV-2)infection is a global pandemic that is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality among recipients of solid organ transplantation.In the course of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection,various laboratory markers have been identified as predictors for high risk of mortality.AIM To risk stratify renal transplant recipients(RTxR)using general demographic parameters,comorbidities and routine laboratory markers for the severity of the disease and its outcomes.We believe that learning about these routinely monitored parameters can help us plan better strategies for the RTxR follow-up program.METHODS This present study includes RTxR who acquired SARS-CoV-2 infection from March 2020 to February 2021.We recorded the basic demographics,comorbidities and routine laboratory markers.We investigated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on RTxRs and risk-stratified the progression of disease severity and outcomes in terms of recovery or mortality.RESULTS From 505 RTxRs in our renal transplant follow-up program,29(7.75%)RTxRs had PCR-positive SARS-CoV-2 infection.We recorded 8 deaths from SARS-CoV-2 infection giving an overall mortality rate of 1.6%but a significant 27.6%mortality in SARS-CoV-2 positive recipients.Age more than 68 years,non-Caucasian ethnicity and male gender were associated with a significant drop in survival probability;P≤0.001.<0.001 and<0.0001 respectively.87.5%of the deceased were diabetic;P≤0.0.0001.Estimated glomerular filtration rate of less than 26 mL/min/1.73 m2,serum albumin less than 20 g/L,Hemoglobin less than 9.6 g/L and serum calcium less than 1.70 mmol/L were all associated with significantly increased risk of mortality;P=0.0128,<0.001,<0.0001 and 0.0061 respectively.CONCLUSION This study has identified some routinely used modifiable parameters in predicting a higher risk of mortality and morbidity.This knowledge can be used in RTxR follow-up programs by addressing these parameters early to help reduce the morbidity and mortality in RTxRs.
基金supported by State Scholarship Fund(No.201506555004)China Scholarship CouncilBeijing Natural Science Foundation of China(No.7144223)
文摘Objective： This study aimed to explore adherence to and beliefs about immunosuppressive medication using the Necessity-Concerns Framework（NCF） in liver transplant recipients.Methods： A cross-sectional study performed in recipients who were at least 3 months post liver transplantation. A convenience sample of 243 recipients was recruited. Self-reported medication adherence was measured by the Basel Assessment of Adherence with Immunosuppressive Medication Scale（BAASIS）. The NCF was operationalized using the Beliefs about Medication Questionnaire（BMQ） to assess the beliefs about necessity and concerns with taking immunosuppressive medication.Results： One-hundred-forty-five liver transplant recipients were non-adherent（59.67%）. Compared to adherers, non-adherers had lower beliefs regarding the necessity of taking immunosuppressive medication and lower scores on the necessity-concerns different from adherers.Conclusions： Non-adherence is common in liver transplant recipients. Non-adherers hold beliefs that are different from adherers. Efforts to increase adherence should be made by targeting medication beliefs.
文摘AIM: To compare the risk of cutaneous infections and tumours in kidney transplant recipients with data recently published about this topic.METHODS: In the present work, we evaluated the incidence of bacterial, fungal and viral cutaneous infectious diseases and the development of skin cancers in a cohort of 436 patients who underwent a renal transplantation. The median age at transplantation of our patients was 50 years and the median duration of the immunosuppression was of 7.2 years. Data obtainedfrom our cohort were compared with those obtained by a systematic review of the literature of the last 20 years about the same topic.RESULTS: Infectious diseases were the most frequent dermatological disorders that were diagnosed after transplantation, affecting about the 16.5% of patients. Herpes virus reactivation occurs in about the 35% of patients and is more common within 6 mo from transplantation, whereas when the immunosuppression is reduced, skin infections are mainly represented by Human Papilloma Virus infections and localized mycosis, such as pityriasis versicolor and superficial candidiasis. Bacterial infections were relatively rare and occur mainly in the first months after transplantation. The cumulative risk to develop skin cancer enhance significantly over the time, as consequence of longterm immunosuppressive regiments. Endogenous and exogenous risk factors, as well as the schedule of immunosuppression can play a role and justify the different incidence of skin cancer in the various series. CONCLUSION: Skin infections and cancer, commonly diagnosed in transplanted patients, impact on survival and life-quality, justifying the realization of follow-up programs for the early diagnosis and treatment.
文摘The appearing of microbial lineages carrying multiple dangerous loci are results from the extensive use of antibiotics and has brought a huge increase in the infections-derived morbidity and mortality, which is critical in the hospital setting. Etiologic agents of these non easily tractable infections include bacteria, such as the genus Staphylococcus, but also fungi and virus. Alterations in the immune system allow these organisms to invade and affect the functionality of any tissue, organ or system of the human being. Pulmonary infection occurs as result of deficient lung systemic defence mechanisms which could be altered by medical treatments or by environmental factors. The infective agents commonly gain access to the lung by air, but also by blood or lymphatic system. Staphylococcus aureus strains that share antibiotic resistance and virulence factors represent the aetiological agent responsible of many cases of bacterial pneumonia, thoracic surgery postoperative infections, and diverse tissue infections, resulting in significant disease and morbidity in recipient patients after lung transplantation. The control and treatment of Staphylococcus infections, especially methicillin resistant strains, need for developing reliable and rapid methods of detection and characterization of these microorganisms. Nowadays, new insights into the diagnostic and epidemiology of MRSA and other pathogenic staphylococci have been developed employing molecular methods. This has meant an important advance in the diagnostic and treatment plans of such infective bacteria.
